Delicious baked mushrooms

Delicious Baked Mushrooms – A Savory Appetizer Recipe

Who doesn't love the aroma of fresh mushrooms, stuffed with delicious ingredients and baked to perfection? This baked mushroom recipe is not only an explosion of flavors but also a perfect way to impress guests at a festive meal or to enjoy a simple yet refined appetizer in the comfort of your home. I will present you with all the necessary details to achieve the most savory delicious baked mushrooms, and additionally, I will share some useful tips and variations to customize this recipe to your taste.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 4 (approximately 10 mushrooms)

Ingredients

- 10 large mushrooms (preferably champignon or portobello)
- 150-200 g grated mozzarella
- 100 g spicy salami or ham (diced)
- 1 can of corn
- 1 egg
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Olives for garnish
- Pickled peppers for garnish
- Olive oil (optional, for extra flavor)

Brief History of the Recipe

Stuffed mushrooms have been enjoyed for centuries, being a popular choice in various culinary cultures. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from meats and cheeses to vegetables and grains. Their popularity has exponentially increased due to their versatility and the way they can be adapted to different diets and preferences. Today, I invite you to explore this simple yet delicious recipe that combines mushrooms with rich flavors and contrasting textures.

Step by Step – Preparing Delicious Mushrooms

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cleaning the mushrooms. Remove the stems and clean each mushroom of the thin skin. Rinse them well under cold running water and let them drain in a large colander. It is important to use fresh mushrooms as they will provide the best flavor and texture.

2. Seasoning the Mushrooms
In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Use this mixture to season each mushroom cap, ensuring that the flavor seeps well into the mushrooms.

3. Preparing the Filling
In another bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt. Add the grated mozzarella and mix well. This mixture will serve to bind the filling and create a delicious crust at the end.

4. Filling the Mushrooms
Take each mushroom and fill it with diced salami or ham, followed by the canned corn. Be generous with the filling, ensuring that each mushroom is packed with flavor. Then, pour the egg and mozzarella mixture on top, completely covering the mushroom.

5. Preparing for the Oven
Place the stuffed mushrooms in a baking tray lined with parchment paper. You can drizzle a little olive oil on top for extra flavor and a crunchier crust.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the middle of the oven and let the mushrooms bake for 10-15 minutes or until the mozzarella becomes golden and crispy.

7. Serving
Once done, remove the mushrooms from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with olives and pickled peppers for an appetizing look and a touch of freshness. I recommend serving them with crispy fries for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result

- Choosing Mushrooms: Opt for large mushrooms to have more room for filling. Champignon mushrooms are the most common, but you can also experiment with portobello mushrooms for a more intense flavor.
- Veggie Option: If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, and add fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Instead of mozzarella, you can use goat cheese or feta for a different taste. These cheeses add a note of acidity that perfectly complements the mushrooms.
- Serving: Stuffed mushrooms pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a spicy tomato salsa, which will add a pleasant contrast.

Nutritional Benefits

Mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, with low calorie content. They can contribute to heart health, strengthen the immune system, and maintain a healthy weight. By combining them with protein from meat or plant-based alternatives, this recipe becomes not only delicious but also nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen mushrooms?
While it is recommended to use fresh mushrooms for the best texture and flavor, frozen mushrooms can be used. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before filling.

What other ingredients can I use for the filling?
You can add chopped olives, sautéed spinach, or even quinoa for a healthy and hearty option. Get creative!

Can they be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can fill the mushrooms a few hours before baking. Cover them with foil and keep them in the fridge. When you are ready to serve, pop them in the oven to bake.

Regardless of the occasion, these delicious baked mushrooms are sure to become a favorite. Their savory taste will delight everyone's taste buds, and their simple preparation makes them easily accessible to any cooking enthusiast. Enjoy and don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!